Sunday December 27th, 2009 @ 3:08 PM

I got my eyebrow pierced November 1st of this year. I recently (maybe a week ago) noticed this lump/bump thing forming on/in the piercing. It feels fairly large and a bit hard but I cannot actually see it. It is slightly painful to the touch. There is no redness. The skin looks grayish where the barbell is under the skin (from what I can see through the hairs of my eyebrow). I have been soaking the piercing with a solution of sea salt and hot water. It did release some white pus at first but now I can’t get anything to drain out of it.

I have 12 other piercings and have not had any infections or rejections before. I am worried that it is infected and that the infection will spread to the rest of my body. I’m not sure if I should see my piercer or my doctor. The weather is bad and the roads are icy so I’m hesitant to go anywhere unless it’s absolutely necessary. What could this problem be and what can I do about it?

Thank you kindly (and happy holidays)!

If Eyebrow piercings aren’t maintained with regular gentle hot compresses they can develop pockets of fluid around the piercing.
Continue with hot compresses (Hot water, clean cloth, gentle pressure applied to the area) twice a day for at least 5 minutes at a time until you can have a piercer or doctor look at it.
In my opinion, it’s best to consult a medical professional if you suspect an infection for appropriate diagnoses and treatment.